The Gomes Guide Travel Podcast
The Gomes Guide Travel Podcast is where travel, food, and culture meet. Hosted by San Francisco–based travel writer, storyteller, and mom of two teens Shannon Gomes, the show features thoughtful conversations with experts in the food and wine world, avid travelers, creators, tastemakers, and locals who reveal what truly makes a destination memorable—and how to experience it like a local, with food always at the center of the journey.
From unforgettable meals and hidden neighborhoods to meaningful cultural experiences and practical travel insight, each episode is designed to inspire curious travelers—especially Gen X listeners who value depth, connection, and great food—to explore the world more intentionally and to bring a sense of discovery back home.
Shannon is also the writer behind The Gomes Guide (https://thegomesguide.substack.com), a weekly travel-focused Substack filled with stories, recommendations, and inspiration for meaningful travel. Listeners are invited to subscribe for fresh ideas, insider tips, and destination inspiration delivered each week.
Whether you’re planning your next trip or simply dreaming about one, The Gomes Guide Travel Podcast celebrates connection, community, and the joy of experiencing new places through food and travel.
The Gomes Guide Travel Podcast
How to Travel Using Points & Miles (Beginner Tips + Expert Strategies with Jeff Neer)
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Want to travel more… without spending more?
In this episode, I sit down with points and miles expert Jeff Neer to break down how to actually use credit card points to travel smarter, save money, and even fly business class.
We cover the basics (perfect if you’re just getting started), including the best credit cards for earning points, how to rack up miles without changing your spending habits, and the biggest mistakes people make, like hoarding points for “someday.”
Jeff also shares some of his best strategies, from using airline shopping portals to booking last-minute deals and finding hidden award availability. Plus, we talk about when it makes sense to use points vs. paying cash, and how flexibility can unlock incredible trips.
And yes… we get into the fun stuff too. Like how he’s used points to take his family to the World Cup and fly long-haul routes in business class.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by points and miles, this episode will make it feel doable (and maybe even a little addictive).
👉 For more travel inspiration, tips, and behind-the-scenes stories, subscribe to my Substack at The Gomes Guide.